Officers probe fraud allegations at Metronet

The British Transport Police (BTP) is to investigate allegations of contract fraud at Metronet.

The police confirmed Metronet had informed them of a specific allegation of fraud being made against it, and officers are in the early stages of their enquiry.

A spokesperson for the rail firm, which is upgrading and maintaining parts of the London Underground, said: "Metronet takes such matters extremely seriously and acted to advise the BTP as soon as we became aware of the allegation.

"We are working closely with the BTP, but cannot comment further at this time while they undertake their investigation."

Metronet has been heavily criticised by MPs in the past few months for its "pathetic under delivery" (News, 30 January) and for having little control over its suppliers (News, 29 November 2007).